"Remember this December, that love weighs more than gold"
Josephine Daskham Bacon
Advent, a season of reflection and anticipation, is an ideal time to contemplate the profound essence of love and so the final section of our advent calendar is dedicated to this.
We believe love is a multifaceted force that nurtures our wellbeing. Love for others fosters connections and builds supportive communities, which are essential for our emotional resilience.
Equally important is love for self, which, when rooted in self-awareness rather than ego, promotes true healing and personal growth. Ego-driven self-love, born of fear, contrasts sharply with genuine self-compassion, which acknowledges our strengths and vulnerabilities.
True love makes demands of us and those around us. Asking us to step up with radical honesty, with kindness and sensitivity – what we mean by this is to be brave enough to look at and love the whole of Self including the parts that we shy away from. In doing this we gain a profound appreciation of our wholeness, and by challenging limiting beliefs we open the doors to vast untapped possibilities.
Love's deep spiritual dimensions remind us of our interconnectedness with humanity and the Earth. Embracing love for humanity cultivates compassion and collective resilience, encouraging us to act with kindness and justice. Extending this love to our planet inspires sustainable living and a commitment to preserving our natural world. This last week of Advent allows us to immerse ourselves in love's transformative power, nurturing ourselves, others, and our shared home.
Day 22: Connect
When we hear the word connect, many assume we mean to connect with loved ones, however, connection is a wider concept. This Advent, embrace connection in its many forms. Connect with nature by taking a winter walk or completing the garden jobs that are needed to prepare for adverse weather, through the work of a favourite artist, a captivating book, or soul-stirring music. Be present with others, foster community, and invite someone for coffee. Explore new ways to connect, like volunteering or attending local events. In addition, take the time to see loved ones and spend the time with them mindfully – paying attention in the moment – to create a more profound experience for all involved.
Day 23: Acts of kindness
In the final week of Advent, celebrate love through acts of kindness. Consider yourself as well as others. Show self-compassion by enjoying a peaceful walk or practicing mindfulness. Surprise someone with a heartfelt gift or letter. Listen when others need to vent. Volunteer your time or donate items to a local charity. Invite a neighbour or friend for a meal or run errands for someone local who is housebound. If you are out celebrating, consider leaving a tip or a positive review. At work, complete a task for a colleague or offer free tutoring or mentorship to a student or junior member of staff. Don’t forget pets and the environment. Protect plants from frost, set up bird feeders, and pamper your dog with a long walk. Plant a tree (this makes a great Christmas gift). Finally consider sharing a positive uplifting message on social media. With these simple gestures let love and kindness be at the heart of our celebrations.
Day 24: Show Appreciation
Gratitude fosters love, appreciation, and resilience by shifting our focus to positive aspects of life. Scientifically, expressing gratitude boosts serotonin and dopamine levels, enhancing our mood and overall well-being. It lowers cortisol, reducing stress and improving heart health. It also does the same for those on the receiving end of our gratitude. By regularly sharing our appreciation of others, we strengthen relationships, increase self-worth, and develop a more optimistic outlook. This positive mindset enhances our resilience, making us better equipped to handle life's challenges. Consider keeping a gratitude journal to document the thigs you are grateful for. Take the time to thank others for services we have received and also consider telling people what they mean to us, and how grateful we are to have them in our lives. Spend quality time with them. Volunteer for causes you care about and be grateful that you can be of service. Celebrate achievements, both yours and others. Appreciating small joys can transform our mental and physical health, promoting a cycle of positivity and well-being.
Day 25: Self-Commitment
Christmas Day
Enjoy the celebrations and set the intention to self-commitment. By this we mean listening to your body and caring for it. Choose to process emotions with CALM
Also make demands of yourself and shed limiting beliefs. There is no need to settle for average or enough. You are a unique, divine being and you deserve all that the universe has to offer.
Do what you need to do to nurture your body and soul. Engage in physical activity that you enjoy and incorporate mediation and mindfulness practice into your routine. Be self-aware, recognising triggers and noticing your fear patterns. Make the decision to pause, breathe and evolve.
Have a lovely Christmas and we will see you in the New Year
Love from
Karen and Chrissie
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